Scotland’s most senior ranking police officer Phil Gormley has confirmed he is being investigated by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC).

In a statement, the chief constable of Police Scotland said he would remain in post while “cooperating fully” with the probe into allegations of gross misconduct.

Details of the allegation have not emerged.

The Scottish Police Authority referred a complaint to the PIRC after deciding it warranted investigation.

“I can confirm that today I was informed by the PIRC that I am the subject of a conduct investigation,” Gormley said.

“I am cooperating fully with the PIRC and will provide all necessary assistance to bring this matter to a timely and satisfactory conclusion. In fairness to others who may be involved, it is not appropriate for me to comment further at this time.

“I would like to stress that I remain focused on leading Police Scotland, ensuring that we continue to serve and protect the people of this country.”

The term gross misconduct is used when a breach of standards is serious enough for dismissal to be considered.

Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said the announcement will have “serious implications” and told BBC Radio Scotland that Gormley should consider suspending his role while the investigation is taking place.

"When the senior, the head of the organisation is being investigated, perhaps it would be best if they stood to one side while a quick investigation was under way,” he said.

"That's something for him to consider, depending on how serious the allegations are.”

A former deputy director general of the National Crime Agency, Gormley joined Police Scotland as chief constable in 2015.